Virat Kohli credits South African Legend for shaping his early IPL career

Virat Kohli‘s one of the most celebrated figures in modern cricket. He has revealed a key figure who left a deep impression on him during his formative years in the Indian Premier League. On the latest episode of the RCB Podcast, Kohli named Mark Boucher, former South African wicketkeeper and RCB teammate, as the player who had the biggest impact on his early career.

“Among all the players I shared the dressing room with early on, it was Boucher who left a lasting mark,” Kohli said. “He picked up on my weaknesses immediately. Without me even saying a word, he told me exactly what I needed to work on to reach the next level.”

Words that changed everything

Boucher didn’t just offer technical insight—he issued a challenge. Kohli recalled one specific moment when the Proteas great pulled him aside with a message that stuck.

“He said, ‘If I come back to commentate in India in a few years and you’re not playing for the national team, it’ll be a disservice to yourself,’” Kohli said. “That stunned me. I had never had someone show that kind of belief in me without me asking for it.”

That moment of clarity stayed with Kohli throughout his career. Since then, he has gone on to become one of India’s greatest-ever batters, breaking numerous records across formats and becoming the face of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise.

RCB bond runs deeper than trophies

Kohli, now in his 18th IPL season, continues to deliver for RCB. He has scored 443 runs in 10 innings this season at an average of 63.29, keeping himself in the Orange Cap race yet again.

When asked about his long-standing loyalty to the franchise, Kohli didn’t hesitate. “The love from RCB fans is unmatched,” he said. “No trophy can compare to what I’ve received from them over the years.”

RCB surge under new leadership

Led by Rajat Patidar, RCB are enjoying a strong campaign in IPL 2025. With seven wins from ten games, they currently sit second on the points table, trailing only the Mumbai Indians. As the playoffs approach, Kohli’s form and experience remain crucial for RCB’s title hopes.

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